Fire Causes Explosions in Manholes in Massachusetts Town

An underground fire has caused minor explosions in manholes in Lynn, Mass.

The fire was reported at about 9 p.m. Saturday and an hour later thick black smoke was seen coming from two manholes, followed by a loud noise from one of them.

The Daily Item reports that National Grid spokesman Sean Gilligan said some cables burning underground caused minor explosions but that manhole covers did not blow off.

Lynn police and firefighters closed streets in the area and kept onlookers clear of the manholes.

The Items says National Grid has been doing extensive underground work in the areas for several weeks.